IPL 2018: Chris Gayle's return to form impresses Kieron Pollard

Mumbai Indians (MI) all-rounder Kieron Pollard on Monday (16 April) said he is happy to see his fellow West Indian big-hitter Chris Gayle returning to his blistering form for the Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) in the ongoing 11th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018.

Pollard further said that it was very disappointing to see such a world-class batsman –Gayle, who was a key player for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for several years, was released by the franchise and failed to find buyers in the first two rounds of the IPL Auction 2018.

However, the Universe Boss was eventually bought by the KXIP at his base price of Rs 2 crore, and has been given chance to prove himself in the third IPL game against Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

On Sunday (15 April), Gayle was at his best, as he blasted 63 off just 33 balls and his match-winning knock laced with 7 boundaries and 4 sixes which helped KXIP to beat CSK in Mohali, and successfully silenced his critics and his haters as well.

As per reports in Hindustan Times, Pollard told reporters, “When you talk about Chris Gayle, you talk about the guy with most T20 runs, the best record, the most sixes, the most dominant force in T20 cricket. As a fellow West Indian, it is disappointing that he didn’t fetch a buyer in the first or second round. But he eventually got a buyer. And in his first game in the tournament, it was pleasing to see do what he can do.”

He signed off by saying, “It seems like he has to prove himself once again. And Universe Boss does in fine style, he did it well. And as a fellow West Indian, it is pleasing to see him come out and score runs, it is pleasing for me to see (Andre) Russell, (Dwayne) Bravo and all the guys doing well. Every day, you’re happy to see these guys performing, and when it is your day, they will be happy in return for you as well.”